French Socialists Call for Debate on Marijuana in Parliament

The lack of legalisation in France forces users to obtain marijuana in various ways, some of them unsafe. Recent riots in northern Marseille (although it is unclear whether they were related to the plant) have spurred several French politicians to speak out on the question.

Several socialists in the city where the events occurred believe that the time has come to discuss cannabis and its legalisation to protect consumers and prevent future tragedies.

Politician Patrick Mennucci acknowledged on a television programme that he had not taken up the problem for some time, but realises that it is now necessary to initiate cordial dialogue. Among other things, he believes it would be beneficial to sell cannabis at government-regulated kiosks, so no one has to obtain it in other ways.

Socialist Marie-Arlette Carlotti, meanwhile, stated that "it is time to face reality." She says that the current system is inoperative and that organised crime is gaining ground thanks to the repressive policies applied to marijuana. "It's time to speak democratically, without hypocrisy, and without the risk of being accused of laxity." Stéphane Mari, president of the Socialist Group in the city of Marseille, also joined other voices calling for Parliament to discuss the (current) criminalisation of grass users.

This is not the first time that French politicians have demanded something similar. A few months ago Justice Minister Christiane Taubira declared that not even considering legalisation was "unacceptable." She argued that talking about the issue was daunting, in part because right wing parties "hypocritically" consider it taboo. In short, there are many in France who believe that the issue must be addressed without further delay.